Chapter 133: Young Queen Bee Paul (6500 Words Chapter)
When the Bulls' biting defense still couldn't stop the Thunder from scoring points in the fourth quarter, there was not much suspense in the game, and the Bulls' offensive space on the court was too small.
In this game, only Hinrich hit 3 three-pointers from the outside, and all the other players hung zero.
At this time, Rose's continuous impact on the basket did not play a big role, and Lore Deng tried to shoot outside the three-point line, but unfortunately he still played iron.
In the end, the game time ran out, 100-89, and the Thunder won a hard-fought win over the Bulls on the road and continued to lead the West.
After the game, Rose took the initiative to find the turtle, the two are the same height, the same hairstyle (both inch heads), and the style of play is mainly impact, when hugging and greeting, it is like looking in the mirror and seeing another self.
Of course, Rose is more good-looking, and the media and fans prefer him more...
Li Ze also found Gibson and started the business mutual blowing mode:
"Hey! Bro, your rebounding is fantastic, seriously, the scouts must be blind, that Griffin guy should give you his first pick! ”
Although Gibson was in a bad mood after losing, he was still very happy to hear Li Ze's praise, and Amika did not have the word of modesty, everyone liked to blow each other.
"Haha, I agree with you, shit scout, Lee, you're playing really well, it's 20+5+7 again, it looks like you're going to win Rookie of the Month again this month."
The best rookie award in December is still Li Ze, for this award, the rookies of the class of 09 have no hope of much, Li Ze is too stable.
After playing for two months, many rookies are still competing for the starting position, and Li Ze has become the core player of the Thunder team, which is incomparable!
"I personally think it's okay to win the Rookie of the Month award once, but the league has been based on data every time, which makes this award lose its suspense, hey, I really hope everyone has a chance to win the award!"
Li Ze said what was in his heart, the trophies are all the same, but the words engraved below are different, and it is enough to take an award as a commemoration.
Gibson didn't feel anything wrong when he heard Li Ze's previous words, but the next two sentences made him feel a lemon in his heart, what does it mean to lose suspense? Why did you suddenly put X on again? And he can't refute it...
"I also hope that the league will change some of the judging criteria and keep up the good work, Bro!"
The corners of Gibson's mouth twitched slightly, and he hurriedly hugged Li Ze and greeted him, invisibly pretending to be X, the most deadly, he was afraid that he would doubt his life if he listened to it again, and he was a first-round player, why was the gap so big.
When Li Ze returned to the locker room, he saw the turtle and turtle dancing wildly on the side, ghostly steps and convulsive body movements, which made Li Ze's scalp numb, especially this guy made a strange scream from time to time.
"Phew!"
In this game, Turtle Turtle was 15 of 24, 5 of 5 free throws, and exploded 35 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists, although he had 3 turnovers, but he did blow up Rose's 21 points, 3 rebounds, 7 assists and 2 turnovers in the position.
The tortoise of the grudge game has raised himself to a higher level, and the mid-range jumper is accurate.
Li Ze and Durant scored 20 and 25 points respectively, which is why Coach Brooks likes short rotations, because the Thunder trio has too much firepower.
"Alright, boys, we can go back to the city with the victory, tomorrow the team has a day off, let's spend time with the family!"
Coach Brooks took the opportunity to announce the good news that the injury-stricken Thunder need to recuperate at this time.
"Yay!!"
Every time Li Ze returned to the mansion in Russia late at night, a trace of loneliness would appear in his heart, the house was too big, he was the only one to live in, and when he opened the refrigerator, he didn't have his favorite beef.
"You have to eat more junk food in the offseason, and life without beef is torture!"
Dietitian Wagner prepares food for him in advance every week, drinks, snacks, and staple foods, and has detailed arrangements every week, but what makes Li Ze most uncomfortable is that he can only eat beef for one week a month, and there are fewer and fewer carbohydrates.
After simply eating some grass, with endless resentment, Li Ze slowly fell asleep.
In the Dream Training Space, Li Ze noticed a new prompt on the control panel, and immediately became energetic, since most of the badges were upgraded to silver, Li Ze paid little attention to the situation in the achievement room.
After all, after this season, a very few badges may be upgraded to gold, but most of the badges can't be upgraded, especially now when playing against the fish belly team, the experience is pitiful, and it may only increase by one or two points of experience in a game.
Li Ze entered the achievement room, looked at the newly produced bronze badge in front of him, and stepped forward to touch it lightly.
Achievement Badge [Circus Three]: 1/50
Improve the ability to shoot difficult three-point shots after dribbling.
After seeing the attributes of the badge, Li Ze couldn't help but scratch his head, this badge is the same as the previous [Buckle Master], it is the kind that is not easy to upgrade, and the bonus effect is better than nothing.
"Forget it, let's continue to complete the physical coordination training in the space, so many badges have enough bonuses for the rookie season."
When the Thunder return to Ohio City for a day off, most players may choose to attend a party or accompany their girlfriends, but for Durant, who is single, the vacation is all about surfing the Internet.
Recently, Durant galloped through a new battleground, Reddit, and after Twitter has not been much of a challenge, he has decided to bring his talent to Reddit, and it is time to show his dominance on social media.
"KD will win the scoring title this season, and if we can stay in first place in the West, maybe KD can win an MVP!"
In the Thunder section, Durant saw that the Russian City fans praised him, and he was immediately in a happy mood, and he typed and left a message.
“Factos! KD is the best in the league! ”
"Kayce was so strong, he won the Rookie of the Month award, but unfortunately he couldn't witness that moment at home, and his arrival changed the Thunder."
Seeing that this post was full of praise for Li Ze, Durant frowned and wrote a short message.
"KD is the core of the Thunder team, he is the strongest!"
In the Thunder section, all the fans in the Russian city sang praises, which made Durant feel comfortable to watch, and the praise of the fans made him never get tired of watching it, and after reading a lot of posts, Durant suddenly had an idea in his heart, and then made a post.
"Kayce was great! But I think KD is the heart of the Thunder, I like the way KD plays, he's an epoch-making player! ”
After the post was sent, the messages gradually increased, Durant smiled slightly, the team boss just wanted to get the support of the fans, but when he saw a message, he was immediately a little angry.
"KD is so ugly, I still like Kayce, I like his songs, I like his skills, I love Kayce, he is the future of the Thunder."
"Fack! Do you have to look at your face when you play basketball? Your wrong views must be corrected! ”
Durant picked up the keyboard and began his own counterattack, and the image of the team's boss could not tolerate the smear of brainless fans.
At noon on January 6, Li Ze and Guigui entertained Darren Collison, who came to play away, at a private restaurant in Russia.
Although there was still some competition and friction in UCLA back then, after entering the NBA, all kinds of things that year disappeared, and they were born in the same university, they were natural allies, and the alumni relationship was still reliable.
"Thanks for the hospitality, congratulations, Kayce, winning Rookie of the Month again, seriously, I envy you and Russell, you are both the main players of the team, and it is difficult for me to play now."
After saying that, Darren Collison picked up the juice on the table and drank it wildly, he really didn't mix well with the Hornets, and most of the time he played in garbage time.
"Actually, I played more than 10 games off the bench last year, but the Hornets have Chris Paul, and it's really hard to compete with each other as starters, and this guy will definitely be an All-Star this year."
Speaking of Chris Paul, the turtle also felt helpless for Darren Collisson, competing with an All-Star point guard for the starter, which was basically hopeless.
"I think I can squeeze Marcus Thorton down first, you're definitely better than this guy, I think he seems to be a second-round pick this year, and I can't understand why your coach would give him so many opportunities."
Li Ze also began to comfort his alumni.
"Because the opponent is 10cm taller than me, I don't think the coach wants to see two small point guards on the court at the same time, Shet! Don't mention these, anyway, our UCLA is currently mixing well, and that Lefu guy is also famous! ”
Darren Collison also stopped talking about his troubles and began to talk about the development of his teammates in college.
"That fat man is swiping data in the Timberwolves, ruthless two pairs of machines, his style of play is still the advice I gave him!"
mentioned Lefu, Li Ze immediately exposed Lefu's old bottom, which immediately caused the two of them to laugh.
The three of them reviewed the interesting stories of the university together, and kept chatting about the development of their teammates at the beginning, which was much more interesting for Li Ze than the superficial brothers exchanging messages.
……
If you want to pick Amerika's point guard who has been in the limelight in the last two years, it must be Kerry Spaul of the current New Orleans Hornets.
After being drafted by the Hornets with the fourth pick in the first round in 2005, Chris Paul led the team to an astonishing 56-26 record in the '07-08 season, and was named to the All-Star bench that season.
Although he unfortunately lost to the spicy Spurs in the Western Conference semifinals, Paul has completely come into people's attention at this time, and Queen Bee Paul is famous.
In the '08-09 season, the Hornets' record was affected by Tyson Chandler's injury, but Chris Paul still led the team to a 49-33 record and entered the playoffs as seventh in the West.
That season, Chris Paul also officially became the All-Star starting point guard.
However, last year's playoff trip was a little unfriendly for Chris Paul, and the Nuggets who met Anthony in the first round were swept by the gentlemen neatly.
G4 was even more miserable, 121-63, facing a huge point difference of 58 points, Chris Paul on the bench could only smile awkwardly.
In the new season, head coach Byron Scott stepped down after nine games, and combined with the changes in the team's personnel, the Hornets currently only have a 16-16 record, ranking 10th in the West.
However, in the face of tonight's game, the Hornets coaching staff is full of confidence, they have recently played a wave of consecutive wins, the state is just right, plus the Thunder team has no one inside, this game is simply a welfare bureau.
The inside combination of David West and Emeka Okafor is sure to blow each other up, coupled with Peja Stojakovic's outside firepower and Chris Paul's threading the needle, this game is basically stable.
Of course, these are the personal thoughts of Jeff Ball, the general manager of the Hornets and the current part-time head coach, and Tim Floyd, the former Hornets coach and current assistant coach, is not so optimistic, after all, the Thunder trio is too hot.
Before the game, in the away team's locker room, assistant coach Floyd was writing and drawing on the whiteboard, constantly explaining the tactical arrangements for the game.
"Paul, you have to pay attention to the defense of the Thunder's guard line, especially Lee, although he is still only a rookie, don't underestimate him, the opponent is very good at defensive guards."
"In this game, we have to play the ball inside, West and Okafor, the two of you can attack more in the low post, and at the same time, you must pay attention to the retreat, the Thunder are very fast in transitioning offense."
Ball, who is a part-time head coach, sent a thick chicken soup to the team at this time:
"We've had a tough start to the new season, but we're on track, we're tired, we're not afraid of difficulties, come on, boys!"
“Okay,Let's go! Yes!! ”
Chris Paul wasn't happy with the team's reinforcements, the Hornets are still weak, and he knows that the team doesn't plan to pay the luxury tax, which also deepens his frustration.
"Let's hope we make it to the Western Conference Finals this season!"
Inside the players' tunnel, Chris Paul, who was about to play, thought silently in his heart.
On the other side of the ocean, because today is Thursday, most fans can only go to Sina Sports to watch the Thunder team's game, and the pre-game host Ke Xiaofan and guest Yang Yi are also discussing the injury situation of the Thunder team.
"The Thunder team is currently injured two interior players, although they won the Bulls in the last game, but I noticed that the head coach still uses a short rotation, Mr. Yang, do you think this rotation strategy can be adjusted?"
Recently, many netizens have been ridiculing the Thunder team for being the main force, and the host Ke Xiaofan also asked a hot topic that everyone is discussing.
"I think the fans should still respect the head coach's choice, the coaching staff is the one who knows the player's condition best, in fact, the Thunder have shortened the playing time of the trio, and I believe there should be no problem surviving a month."
"With 29 wins, the Thunder can afford to lose, and now their goal is to stay healthy, all injury-free, and make the playoffs, and that's all that matters!"
Yang Yi said the truth that made the keyboard warriors sad.
"I also agree with Mr. Yang, the game is about to start, and we have got the starting list ahead."
"The Hornets have Chris Paul and Devin Brown in their starting backs, Peja Stojakovic and David West up front, and Emeka Okafor in the center."
"The Thunder started the same as they did on the court, with Russell Westbrook and Lee Ze in the backcourt, Kevin Durant and Sergi Ibaka in the front, and Nick Collison playing at center again."
"The game starts right away, and we'll tell you more about the changes in the two teams later in the game, so let's switch to the game ahead."
In the Ford Center arena, many fans brought their own cheering slogans tonight to pray for the injured players, which also made Jeff Green and Kostic, who were sitting on the sidelines in casual clothes, very touched.
"Kevin, you have to play well tonight, I'm sure you'll lead the team to victory."
When the players on both sides finally warmed up, Jeff Green dangled to Durant's side and patted him on the back.
"Don't worry, Bro, the Hornets' forward line won't be able to stop me, we will win tonight!"
After two consecutive days of high-intensity online matching, Durant was in a good mood, and when he heard Jeff Green's fart in circles, he suddenly put on a boss posture and set up a flag when he came up.
On the other hand, Li Ze found some bad signs, maybe it was the law of conservation of character, the turtle turtle's shooting today, Li Ze always felt that the other party was going into the sewer tonight...
"Russell, how are you feeling, I mean, how does it feel, you guy has been striking iron since the afternoon training session."
Li Ze saw that the turtle turtle was still striking iron continuously, and couldn't help but step forward to remind him, don't throw it coldly!
"Don't worry, Kayce, I'm a competition player, as soon as the game starts, my hand will recover quickly, don't forget the last game, I shot a very high shooting rate, my shooting talent, has been activated!"
Turtle Turtle said confidently.
“…… This sounds familiar. ”
The game started immediately, and the referee motioned for the players from both sides to come to the center of the court, and Chris Paul showed a big man, constantly hugging and greeting everyone on the Thunder team, and greeting them cordially.
"Kayce, I've always been very optimistic about you, and I can finally compete together, come on! Bro! ”
Li Ze didn't expect Chris Paul to be a self-acquaintance, and in the face of the other party's praise, he immediately turned on the business mutual blowing mode and used the almighty word...
"Wow! Thank you for your appreciation, you are an example for me to follow! ”
"At the beginning of the game, Okafor easily jumped to win Collison and got the ball for the Hornets in the first attack, and now it seems that sending Chandler away to trade to Okafor is indeed a good choice, after all, Okafor's attendance is still guaranteed."
Host Ke Xiaofan commented on the game while also commenting on the Hornets' trade.
The Hornets attacked, and after Chris Paul dribbled through the half, he immediately played a block with David West, and although the turtle was not slow to squeeze through the screen, Paul was faster on the ball.
After dismantling, David West received a pass from Paul near the free-throw line and did not hesitate to shoot a mid-range jumper.
"Hmmm...", two points were easily scored.
The Hornets block and dismantle, Paul can shoot, pass, and break through with the ball, he is small, explosive, and fast, which makes Ibaka's defense dare not go too far forward and is in a dilemma.
"Good shot! Paul's blocking and dismantling is really beautiful, although the Hornets currently have a poor record, Paul still has a chance to enter this season's All-Star, which is also Li Ze's competitor! ”
The host Ke Xiaofan couldn't help mentioning the All-Star Game again.
The Thunder quickly served the baseline ball, and after the turtle dribbled through the halfcourt, Nick Collison stepped up to make a high block, and Paul, who defended the turtle, did not choose to squeeze through the screen, but walked off the line to go around the cover to give the turtle a chance to shoot.
Seeing the opponent's defensive choice, Turtle was full of confidence and did not hesitate to shoot a mid-range jumper.
"Bang...", he was angry.
The long rebound was picked up by Peja, and a pass found Paul, who received the ball and immediately launched a transition attack, seeing the Thunder retreat quickly, and after halftime, slowing down the tempo again, while signaling Okafor to step up and block the pick-and-roll.
Paul took the right side to accelerate the breakthrough, and suddenly made a feint to hit the ground in the middle of the game, and the ball bounced back instantly, and the mid-range shot was dashing.
The two-pointer was scored again.
The feint of the ground-hitting pass was so realistic that Collison and Turtle were stunned at the same time, and by the time they could react, Paul had already finished his shot.
"Shhhhh
The crowd at Ford Center immediately booed Paul on his home turf.
"Beautiful goal! Paul's passing feint is really beautiful, I've always admired Paul's ball handling skills, and it's amazing to make such a move on the NBA court! ”
Yang Yi suddenly turned on Paul's blowing mode...
The Thunder attacked, Li Ze relied on Ibaka's cover, received a pass from the turtle at the top of the three-point arc, and in the face of Devin Brown's defense, he did not rush to attack, dribbling with his left hand while giving Durant an offensive gesture.
Durant understood after seeing Li Ze's gesture, and immediately came over to catch the ball, the two sides played a simple hand hand, Peja's defensive aggression was insufficient, Durant easily got rid of the entanglement after receiving the ball, dribbled a big step, and made a quick stop jump shot.
"Huh...", the long two points hit steadily.
This is also the game strategy arranged by the Thunder coaching staff before the game, the Hornets' forward defensive hardness is not enough, so naturally they have to play more, Li Ze and Durant can definitely easily beat each other.
"Oh wow!!"
Seeing Durant score, the audience suddenly erupted in huge cheers, and many fans waited for the team to score before they sat down to watch the game.
This time the Hornets' offense was more simple and rough, David West took the ball at the free throw line and immediately passed to Okafor in the low post, who received the ball and faced Collisson's defense, smacked twice, carried the space, and simply hooked his right hand.
"Hmmm...", two points from the basket.
Coach Brooks was a little speechless when he saw this situation on the sidelines, the other party obviously wanted to play more inside offense, but the Thunder really couldn't hold it...
After making a cross cover on the baseline, Li Ze and Ibaka successfully received the ball in the low post, noticing that Devin Brown's defense was not very close, and after tentative stepping, he made a dry jump shot.
"Whew...", a steady hit from mid-range.
Although the goal was scored, Li Ze noticed some defensive details of the Hornets, the opponent shrank very little, and put a long distance away for Ibaka and Collisson, and the Hornets' strategy in this game should be to protect the paint area and put a long shot appropriately.
The next game also confirmed Li Ze's conjecture, the Hornets decided that the Thunder team couldn't shoot them from the outside, except for Li Ze and Durant's tighter defense, the other three were properly let go.
West and Okafor are basically inside, which makes it difficult for the Thunder to open up offensive space on the court, and the turtles seem to be going straight to the sewers tonight, and the Hornets are shrinking smaller and smaller.
The Thunder's transition offense is also difficult to play, Paul is now a master of rhythm, pressing the offensive rhythm on the court very slowly, Peja has no absolute opportunity to resolutely not throw three-pointers, and the Hornets are always scoring in the middle range and low post.
In the last attack of the first quarter, after Li Ze received Durant's hand-handed pass, Peja's defensive rotation slowed down a beat, changed direction with the ball in his left hand, easily shook off the opponent's defense, pretended to accelerate the breakthrough, dribbled behind his right hand, and quickly retreated and jumped.
The three-point shot hollowed into the net.
With three seconds left in the first quarter, Li Ze quickly stepped forward to interfere with Paul, who received the ball, and the latter stopped attacking and let the time run out.
"Good attacking skills, but unfortunately we won this game."
Without waiting for Li Ze to respond, after loading X, Paul quickly ran back to the bench.
30-24, the Thunder team fell behind by 6 points in the first quarter, the difference was not too big, but the situation on the court was very passive, and Li Ze spit out helplessly in his heart:
"This is the rhythm of the Thunder to introduce you to the center of the league..."